Breakfast links: Could the Idaho Stop become the District Stop?
Cyclists approaching an intersection by Elvert Barnes licensed under Creative Commons.
Bill would let cyclists yield instead of stop at stop signs
A bill introduced by DC Councilmember Mary Cheh would allow cyclists to use the “Idaho Stop,” which allows them to treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs. It would also make “no turn on red” the default at DC intersections. She also introduced a bill that would require DC to replace the “quick build” plastic bollards so often seen flattened around curb extensions and bike lanes. (Jordan Pascale / DCist. Tip: Chester B.)
Metro expected to decide this year whether to build rail to National Harbor
Metro is set to begin a public comment period this spring on six possible solutions to deal with crowded stations on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines, which overlap through much of DC. One option would be to reroute the Blue Line through National Harbor, though Metro’s recent financial and operational struggles could pose a barrier. (Luz Lazo / Post)
Potomac Yard station nears the finish line
The Potomac Yard Metro station is 70% complete, officials say, and the infill station is expected to open for service this fall, later than planned. (James Cullum / ALXnow)
3 out of 4 respondents said they support clearing encampments in Post poll
A Washington Post poll found that three quarters of respondents answered “yes” to a question about whether they supported Mayor Muriel Bowser’s program to shut down large homeless encampments. But 7 in 10 also say affordable housing is scarce in their own neighborhood, and housing affordability is the top reason cited by those saying they want to leave DC. (Post. Tip: Chester B.)
Metro finds combination of root causes for 7000-series wheelset issues
Metro General Manager Paul Wiedefeld said the agency has found several likely root causes of wheelset issues that caused a 7000-series railcar derailment last year and sidelined 60% of Metro’s fleet. He didn’t specify what those causes were or when the fleet could be put back into service. (Justin George / Post. Tip: Chester B.)
DC gas leaks emit greenhouse gases
Natural gas contributes about a quarter of DC’s emissions — but climate activists who tested for gas leaks around DC say the number could be much higher. Volunteers found multiple places where gas exceeded the air levels at which it can ignite. (Jacob Fenston / DCist)
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